While my own horse is rehabbing, I was sad to miss one of my personal favorite events this past weekend: Valinor Farm Horse Trials. Located in Plymouth, Massachusetts, Valinor Farm is an asset to the Area 1 eventing community. The venue is owned and maintained by the Risso family, headed up by family matriarch Robyn Risso who oversees the farm’s operations and serves as event secretary. Daughter Erin Risso, who herself events through the CCI4*-S level, serves as show jumping course designer and can often be found keeping a watchful eye over the cross country course on show day.
The Risso family has made numerous updates to the farm since they began hosting USEA recognized horse trials in 2005 and continues to make improvements each year. Just within the relatively short time since I first competed there I’ve seen the cross country course become expanded, a Modified track be added, frangible tables brought in, and a new dressage ring added — I’m sure I’m missing a few things as well!
Not only have the Rissos gone above and beyond to make every competitor’s experience an enjoyable one, but the farm boats an incredible natural asset as well: it’s rolling terrain (surprisingly hill for just an hour south of Boston!) and fantastic footing.Those hills offer a thrilling ride for competitors and excellent viewing for spectators. Enjoy the views from Valinor Farm and take a peek at some of the action from this past weekend’s event with this collection of clips.
Valinor Farm: [Results] [Official Photographer]
